Highlights of Northern Spain

With cosmopolitan cities and ancient villages, rolling vineyards and rugged mountains, Northern Spain is as unforgettable as it is eclectic. Experience the finest sights and tastes often missed by other travellers on a journey to the heart of this diverse region.

Highlights

Discover Salvador Dalí’s workshop, library and gardens in Cadaqués

Experience Michelin starred cuisine with a three course farewell dinner in Bilbao

Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

Itinerary

Day 1 – Barcelona – Cadaques – GironaAfter meeting in Barcelona, we’ll kick off the tour with a visit to the Salvador Dalí Museum-House in Cadaqués – where we’ll see the surrealist artist’s workshop, library and gardens. We’ll then make our way along the sun-kissed Costa Brava to Girona: where a welcome dinner awaits. (D)

Day 2 – GironaThis morning we’ll roll up our sleeves for a Spanish cooking class (with our very own creations on today’s lunch menu). Then:we’ll see the likes of the cathedral, the Esglesia de Sant Feliu and the medieval Sant Pere de Galligants on a walking tour of Girona. After that, the rest of the day will be yours to spend at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 3 – Girona- Siurana – Besalu – CardonaFirst today is a guided tour and cheese tasting session at a traditional farm in Siurana. Then it’s onwards to the medieval village of Besalú – a hidden treasure filled with Romanesque architecture. After continuing on to Cardona (where we’ll tour the imposing Castle), we’ll round off the day with an included dinner. (B, D)

Day 4 – Cardona – Alquezar – BoltanaThis morning we’ll take things underground on a tour of Salt Mountain’s famous mine. After returning to the daylight, we’ll make tracks to the unique Bodega Sommos winery for an included wine tasting session. Beautiful Boltaña is where we’ll rest our heads tonight. (B)

Day 5 – Boltana – Jaca – OliteOur first stop of the day will be Jaca, where we’ll have the chance to stroll around the charming old town before we move on to the Monastery of Leyre this afternoon. Here, we’ll delve into Navarre’s fascinating history – ticking off the St Virila Abbey Church, the coffer holding the remains of the first kings of Navarre, and the Porta Speciosa doorway. Our last stop of the day will be Olite, where we’ll tuck into a sumptuous dinner. (B, D)

Day 6 – OliteToday will begin with an exploration of the magnificent Olite Royal Palace: the medieval castle that was once the seat of the Court of Navarre. After an insightful morning, the rest of the day will be yours to spend strolling the city’s underground galleries or seeking out exceptional Spanish fare in the local restaurants. (B)

Day 7 – Olite – Pamplona – LaguardiaOnwards to Pamplona – the capital of Navarre. Here, we’ll spend some time spotting historic landmarks such as Pamplona Cathedral and the Plaza del Castillo before hitting the road to the hilltop city of Laguardia. (B, D)

Day 8 – Laguardia – La Rioja – LaguardiaAfter a walking tour of the walled old quarter of Laguardia, we’ll make tracks to La Rioja – where we’ll be lucky enough to visit two distinguished wineries, and enjoy tasting sessions accompanied with authentic tapas. Then it’s back to Laguardia we go for an evening spent at your leisure. (B)

Day 9 – Laguardia – San Sebastian – Hondarribia

Today it’s out of the countryside and onwards to the coast, as we set a course for San Sebastián – where we’ll have some free time to explore. The afternoon will see us travelling towards Hondarribia, with a stop at the scenic Monte Igueldo Mirador along the way. Tonight, we’ll pull out all the stops with a farewell dinner at a fantastic local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 10 – Hondarribia – Getaria – Bilbao

There’s still plenty to do before our tour comes to a close! First on the agenda is a visit to an artisan anchovy producer in Getaria, where we’ll taste some of the delicious locally sourced seafood. After that, we’ll move on to Bilbao, where we’ll enjoy one last walking tour and a trip to the Guggenheim Museum, to boot. Then it’s time to say goodbye. (B)

Inclusions

9 nights boutique accommodation

14 Meals: 9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

Premium mini-coach transportation, Experienced Driver and Tour Leader

BR-BEHHSBX

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